We all have an inner-critic, that little voice inside our head that tells us that we are not good enough, calls us names or tells us that we don't measure up. Some people's inner-critic is more active than others, which can lead to low levels of achievement, low self-esteem, depression or anxiety and even health issues.
It is very important to learn to calm the inner-critic to prevent these negative occurrences from happening. If not controlled, the inner-critic will hold us back.
Jane Shure and Beth Weinstock have elaborated more fully on calming the inner critic in their newsletter for Selfmatters.org.
They have indicated that the inner-critic develops when early life experiences provide high exposure to helplessness, fear and pain.
When we live with disapproving parents, teachers or friends, we begin to believe those harsh messages and they become hard-wired into the brain. This can compromise our ability to control our inner-dialogue and, subsequently, makes it difficult for us to regulate our emotions.
They suggest that we listen to our inner-critic for a number of reasons, including:
The good news is that we can learn to rewire our brains and take control of that inner-critic.
Just as you would practice for a big game or train for a marathon, relearning new patterns of thinking requires the same great effort. The following are suggestions they provide to build a more positive inner-dialogue:
Practice speaking words of compassion. Talk positively to yourself in the mirror.
Hopefully, practicing these strategies will help you be more successful and satisfied with your life.
However, if you believe your inner-critic is leading to depression or anxiety, it may be helpful for you to seek professional help.
There is hope. We all hold the ability to quiet that inner-critic.
For more information, visit our website at www.lycominghealthyliving.com.
Seiler is a licensed psychologist and neuropsychologist and sees clients through Associates in Neuropsychology and Collaborative Healthcare, PC.
